A long-serving Redbridge councillor has been made an MBE in the New Year's Honours List.

Cllr Alan Weinberg, cabinet member for children's services, was recognised for his services to education and the local community.

The 69-year-old Conservative. who represaents Clayhall ward, first entered local politics in Redbridge 32 years ago.

The former black taxi driver was Mayor of Redbridge in 2001/2 and has held the position of cabinet member for leisure.

He said: "I was poor and raised in Hackney. I worked as a black cab driver when I entered local politics but I did it to help people so the thought of one day being honoured an MBE never entered my head.

"I am touched about the citation of being awarded for my services to the wider community, and it's a very loving and warming feeling that people have taken the time to send me messages upon messages congratulating me."

Cllr Weinberg does not know who he was nominated by as it is not revealed when the award is announced.